4.5
(12501)
80,833
hikers
964
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Hemmelsdorfer Lake traverse a landscape shaped by glacial history, featuring the lake itself as a central natural element. The region includes diverse habitats such as the Aalbeek lowland nature reserve, which is a significant bird sanctuary. Hikers can expect to encounter green forests, open meadows, and a 0.5 km oak wood boardwalk along the lakeside. An observation tower at Hermann-Löns-Blick provides panoramic views of the surroundings.
Last updated: October 4, 2026
4.8
(14)
40
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(21)
70
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.4
(19)
59
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A lovely rest area right at a road junction... If you're traveling by bicycle, you can repair your bike at the on-site repair station.
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A lovely rest area right at a road junction... If you're traveling by bicycle, you can repair your bike at the on-site repair station.
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According to the European Water Framework Directive (WFD), Lake Hemmelsdorf is in an unsatisfactory ecological state. The lake receives heavily to very heavily nutrient-polluted water from the larger tributaries of the Mühlenau, Thuraubek and Spannau as well as other tributaries. The visible consequences in summer are often blue-green algae and foam formation on the banks. In terms of water quality, Lake Hemmelsdorf is one of the most endangered lakes in Schleswig-Holstein.
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The fish population in Lake Hemmelsdorf includes perch, roach, bream, ruffe, zander, pike, eel, carp, and, to a lesser extent, rudd, minnow, and tench.[5] The northern part of the lake and the adjacent Aalbeek lowland were declared a nature reserve "Aalbeek Lowland" on 31 December 1984[6] and a European Bird Sanctuary in 2000, covering an area of 310 hectares.
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Breeding birds at Lake Hemmelsdorf include the mute swan, greylag goose, gadwall, coot and great crested grebe. During migration, the little gull, osprey, black tern, great egret, tufted duck and pochard are present. The kingfisher and the white-tailed eagle are regular feeding visitors. The marsh harrier, reed warbler, great reed warbler, bluethroat, penduline tit and bearded reed can be found in the reeds.
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Lake Hemmelsdorf is divided into two completely different basins in the area of the so-called Möveninsel. The larger northern basin is flat and four meters deep (four meters below sea level). The smaller southern basin is a large cryptodepression (the result of ice age glaciation). On August 31, 2007, the HafenCity University of Hamburg carried out a survey in this southern part of Lake Hemmelsdorf using sonar technology (side scan sonar, subbottom sonar and multibeam sonar) to determine the deepest point on land in Germany. The deepest point is 39.5 m and was marked with a buoy.
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With a catchment area of 36.4 km², Lake Hemmelsdorf has numerous small tributaries, including the Aalbeck, which drains Lake Ruppersdorf, and the Mühlenau, which drains the Överdiek.
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The lake was formed after the last ice age (the Weichselian glaciation), when the channel carved out by glaciers connected to the Baltic Sea and the Hemmelsförde was formed. This fjord was subsequently cut off from the Baltic Sea by the sand masses eroded from the Brodten shore by the Baltic Sea and moved westward by the current, thus forming the lake we see today.
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The Hemmelsdorfer Lake region offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 700 routes specifically categorized as easy. This ensures plenty of options for all fitness levels.
Yes, many of the easy trails are perfect for families. Routes often feature gentle terrain through forests and meadows, and some even lead to interesting spots like the Hemmelsdorfer See Lakeside Boardwalk. A good option for a shorter family outing is the Karls Strawberry Farm Zirkow – Karl's Adventure Village Warnsdorf loop from Aalbeek-Niederung.
Most trails around Hemmelsdorfer Lake are dog-friendly. However, when hiking through sensitive areas like the Aalbeek lowland nature reserve, it's important to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife, especially birds.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Hemmelsdorfer Lake are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, consider the View of Wet Meadows – Aalbeek-Niederung Trailhead loop from Hemmelsdorf, which offers a pleasant round trip.
Hikers can explore diverse natural features, including the significant Aalbeek lowland nature reserve, known for its birdlife. You can also walk along the 0.5 km Hemmelsdorfer See Lakeside Boardwalk, offering close-up views of the lake's vegetation. The trails also lead through green forests and open meadows, providing varied scenic backdrops.
For panoramic views, head to the Hermann-Löns-Blick Observation Tower. Many trails in the area offer glimpses of the lake, but this tower provides an elevated perspective of the surroundings.
Hemmelsdorfer Lake offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors, while summer is ideal for combining hikes with lakeside activities. Even in winter, the easy trails can be beautiful, though some lowland areas might be flooded after heavy rain.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. For instance, the Fischereihof Hemmelsdorf is a notable spot near the lake where you can find local culinary delights. Some routes, like the Hemmelsdorfer Lake – Karls Strawberry Farm Zirkow loop from Aalbeek-Niederung, pass by attractions that may offer food and drink.
The trails around Hemmelsdorfer Lake are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 10,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the serene lake views, and the diverse natural landscapes, especially the protected Aalbeek lowland nature reserve.
While specific public transport routes directly to every trailhead may vary, the region around Hemmelsdorfer Lake is generally accessible. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to villages like Hemmelsdorf or Offendorf, which serve as starting points for many routes.
Beyond the general appeal of nature, the Hemmelsdorfer See Lakeside Boardwalk offers a unique experience for children to observe riverside vegetation up close. The Aalbeek lowland nature reserve also provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly birds, which can be exciting for younger hikers.
The Aalbeek lowland nature reserve is a European Bird Sanctuary, making it a significant area for birdwatching. Hikers can experience a unique landscape shaped by glacial history, with paths leading through diverse habitats. It's an adventurous-looking area, though parts can be flooded after heavy rain, adding to its wild character.


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